Focus on Africa

Lyse Doucet, BBC's Chief International Correspondent, shares her firsthand experiences from war-torn Sudan, revealing the escalating humanitarian crisis faced by displaced families. Abigail Matrai from Zimbabwe discusses a pivotal High Court ruling expanding abortion rights for victims of rape and incest, shedding light on past legal barriers. Jaap van der Varde from the WWF highlights the rich biodiversity of the Congo Basin, celebrating over 700 newly discovered species while stressing the urgent threats of poaching and industrialism.

Join Shelley Namba, a journalist from Windhoek, as she discusses Namibia's historic first female president and the challenges she'll face in a male-dominated political landscape. Elhaj Ould Brahim, a human rights activist, sheds light on the nationwide protests in Mauritania following a gang rape case, highlighting the urgent need for legal reforms. Meanwhile, Olanike Adela-Kung, an associate professor, dives into the complexities of surrogacy in Nigeria, discussing a proposed bill to regulate this emerging practice and protect the rights of all involved.

In this insightful discussion, political analyst Daniel Dadsey sheds light on Ghana's upcoming presidential election, focusing on voter priorities amid economic turmoil. Dr. Henry Musa Paka shares Sierra Leone's ambitious plans to revitalize local rice production and achieve food security. Meanwhile, Frank Gheretz evaluates President Macron's shifting diplomacy towards Anglophone Africa and the implications of these changes on international relations. Tune in for a mix of political intrigue and agricultural aspirations!

Azizat Ola Oluwa, a BBC journalist, reports on the heart-wrenching aftermath of an airstrike in Tudunbiri village, highlighting the community's grieving process and the quest for justice. Thomas Nadi dives into the grim health impacts of illegal gold mining in Ghana, particularly concerning mercury poisoning. Independent economist Eckhart Nauman discusses the evolving landscape of visa restrictions for African travel, revealing the challenges and improvements faced by travelers across the continent.

Whitney Schneidman, a senior fellow at the Brookings Institute specializing in US-Africa relations, discusses the significance of President Biden's historic visit to Angola, emphasizing its geopolitical context amid competition with China and Russia. Klaire Borchchevsky, a BBC Russian correspondent, sheds light on Maxim Shugulay's controversial role in Africa, revealing his dual identity as a cultural promoter and potential disruptor. They also critique the political turmoil in Mozambique, addressing human rights concerns and the importance of international support for democracy.

In this discussion, Njaye Shek Silla, Senegal’s chief negotiator for a global plastics treaty, sheds light on the ongoing negotiations in Busan, tackling the challenges faced by developing nations and the need for comprehensive regulations. Lydia Zigomo, Regional Director of the UN Population Fund, reveals alarming connections between climate change and violence against women, urging for integrated solutions in climate action plans. The conversation intertwines these pressing global issues, highlighting the urgent call for action and collaboration.

Leila Soueif, an Egyptian activist, shares her emotional journey on hunger strike for her son, highlighting personal sacrifices for justice. Alexandra Bilak discusses the alarming rise of 35 million internally displaced people in Africa, attributing this to conflicts and climate change, while Bernd Reiter uncovers the ancient democracy practices in Botswana, like the Kudla system, showing alternative governance models. The conversation intertwines personal stories with pressing political issues, making the plight of the displaced and the fight for freedom deeply relatable.

In this insightful discussion, BBC journalist Chris Ewoko illuminates the tragic jihadist attack in Nigeria and the enduring challenges facing its military. Political analyst Ongama Mtimka dives into the South African impeachment proceedings against President Ramaphosa, revealing the scandal's implications for governance. Meanwhile, Richard Moncrief critiques potential constitutional changes in the Democratic Republic of Congo, questioning their motivations and potential consequences. Each guest sheds light on complex dynamics shaping their regions, making for a riveting conversation.

Geoffrey Otieno, a Kenyan labor activist advocating for the rights of migrant workers in Qatar, dives into the complexities of labor migration in the Gulf States. He shares his compelling journey from exploitation to activism, revealing the harsh realities faced by African workers. The conversation also touches on the upcoming Namibian elections, emphasizing youth dissatisfaction and demands for change. Additionally, the risky gold mining practices in Mali and their connection to extremist financing are discussed, highlighting urgent ethical concerns in the global gold trade.

A court in Zimbabwe recently convicted dozens of opposition politicians belonging to the Citizens Coalition for Change party for holding an illegal gathering. Is the party facing a clamp down from Zanu-PF?How the church is trying to navigate governance challenges for Kenya and AfricaPlus, lessons the South African city of Cape Town learned about water security from the 2018 drought Presenter Charles Gitonga Producers: Sunita Nahar, Amie Liebowitz and Bella Hassan in London and Susan Gachuhi in Nairobi Senior Producer: Paul Bakibinga Technical Producer: Philip Bull Editors: Andre Lombard and Alice Muthengi